Learner driver finally passes after numerous attempts at 59 theory tests

An individual has received praise for their determination after failing the driving theory test a record-breaking 59 times before finally passing. The persistent learner spent £1,380 and approximately 60 hours at a test center in Redditch. Despite their astonishing feat, someone in Hull failed the test 57 times, followed by another in Guildford with 55 failures, and a driver in Tunbridge Wells falling short 53 times. The AA has acknowledged that nerves play a role in these situations, but emphasizes the importance of thorough revision. The statistics, provided by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), only cover learner drivers who passed the theory test in the first half of 2023. Each attempt at the theory test costs £23 and typically takes an hour to complete. Camilla Benitz, managing director of AA Driving School, praised the commitment displayed by these learners and stressed the significance of not underestimating the difficulty of the theory test. Department for Transport data shows a decline in the pass rate for theory tests, decreasing from 65% in the 2007-2008 financial year to 44% in 2022-2023. In the UK, learners must pass the theory test before they can book a practical driving test. The theory test comprises 50 multiple-choice questions testing knowledge of the Highway Code and driving skills, with a minimum of 43 correct answers required. Subsequently, individuals must complete a hazard perception test involving 14 video clips of different driving scenarios.